Thoughts of summer amid the chill

As I write this article Storm Ciara has just moved on giving some respite before Storm Dennis moves in. Not the best time for outdoor activities, even if the BB Scottish cross country championship looms large! Summer cannot be too far away when I hear camping plans are afoot. I’ve mentioned the fourth annual Scottish National Camp arranged so that companies can have canvas experience, again to be held at Millport in May; also that 8th Falkirk (Bainsford Church) is following Harry Potter to Alnwick Castle. This week after scanning the dozen or so advertised campsites in the BB national magazine, I learned 7th Falkirk (Baptist Church) is planning a similar venture south of the border in Yorkshire. I’ve no doubt there are other plans yet to emerge. I await hearing of such which keep the ethic of BB camping continuous since 1886 when William Alexander Smith took his 1st Glasgow lads to Tighnabruaich where they continue to enjoy such annual fellowship to this day. Even our own Stedfast Association for former members and supporters is about to have time away at the end of Marchm this year to Oban, perhaps no longer under canvas but to a well appointed hotel taking account of their years. I follow up my mention of the battalion alternative worship event ‘‘TurnaBBouT’’ in Falkirk Town Hall on Friday, March 6, when John Vaughan informs me that the format will be altered this year for the theme ‘‘20/20 Vision’’. In an effort to better appeal to the wide age range (six-18 years). Following the live worship band the Anchor Boys and Juniors will remain in the main auditorium with the People’s Church puppets whilst the Company Section and Seniors will hear from Connaire McDonagh in the Lesser Town Hall. The worship will conclude again altogether with the band and ‘‘Prayer Point’’ by boys and girls from 7th Falkirk. Sounds like a great night for everyone !